Acute Practitioners (APs) have completed advanced education and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions. They provide a broad range of health care services and work closely with GPs. An APs duties include the following:
Collaborating with GPs and other health professionals as needed, including providing referrals
Counselling and educating patients on health behaviours, self-care skills and treatment options
Diagnosing and treating acute illnesses, infections and injuries
Diagnosing, treating and monitoring chronic diseases
Obtaining medical histories and conducting physical examinations
Ordering, performing and interpreting diagnostic studies (e.g. lab rests, x-rays, ECGs)
Prescribing medications
Prescribing physical therapy and other rehabilitation treatments
APs can see patients of all ages. The core philosophy of the field is individualised care. APs focus on patients’ conditions, as well as the effects of illness on the lives of the patients and their families. They focus on prevention, wellness and patient education. Informing patients about their health care, and encouraging them to participate in decisions are central to the care provided by APs. Mendip Vale Medical Group currently has 10 APs across sites. They are all able to see and treat patients. Listed below are some of the more common ailments they can treat:
Sore throats or Sinusitis
On going coughs/colds
Chest Infections
Ear Infections
Skin infections and rashes
Urine infections
Abdominal pain
Diarrhoea or Vomiting
Minor Health Injuries
All their appointments are bookable on the day, and the Practice Co-ordinators will ask you an indication of your problem. This is to ensure you are seen by the appropriate clinician.
